Safety Alert: Unstable TVs Can be Dangerous

Good Housekeeping's always advocated for safety in and around the home. When you think of baby proofing, the first things that come to mind are covering outlets and sharp edges, gating stairwell entrances, and locking up medicines, alcohol, and cleaning products. What you might not consider is whether or not your television is secured. Unfortunately, a growing number of injuries and deaths have been caused by unanchored flat panel TVs. When the numbers crossed my desk, I was shocked. A recent CPSC report indicated that a child dies every three weeks from a toppled television. And it's estimated that nearly 20,000 people seek treatment for related injuries from tipping TVs each year - 50% of them under the age of 9.

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As televisions get larger and thinner, physics dictates they'll readily tip when bumped. That's why it's crucial to properly mount or secure your television. Sanus, a manufacturer of wall mounts, has teamed with Safe Kids Worldwide to educate consumers about the associated risks of not properly securing televisions.

Some tips for securing your televisions and other furniture with the potential to tip over:

Anchor furniture and TV stands to the floor or wall with appropriate hardware, like brackets.

If the TV isn't mounted, make sure it's on a sturdy, low base. Keep the television as far back as possible on the stand.

Store remote controls and other attractive items like toys away from the TV stand to prevent children from knocking the TV if they go to grab them.

Make sure electrical cords are out of reach so kids can't tug or play with them.